Evaluating the Role of Clinical Mentorship in Enhancing Confidence Among Undergraduate Nursing Students
Posted: Feb 04, 2007
Abstract
The development of professional confidence represents a critical component in the educational journey of undergraduate nursing students, serving as both an outcome measure and a mediating factor in clinical competence. Clinical mentorship has long been recognized as an essential element in nursing education, yet the specific mechanisms through which mentorship cultivates confidence remain inadequately understood. Traditional approaches to studying mentorship have often focused on skill acquisition and knowledge transfer, neglecting the psychological and emotional dimensions of confidence development. This research addresses this gap by employing an innovative methodological framework that captures both quantitative changes in confidence levels and qualitative insights into the mentorship experience. Nursing education faces persistent challenges in preparing students for the complex demands of clinical practice, with many graduates reporting insufficient confidence during their transition to professional roles. The anxiety and self-doubt experienced by nursing students can significantly impact patient care quality, clinical decision-making, and ultimately, retention in the nursing profession. While clinical placements provide essential hands-on experience, the mere accumulation of clinical hours does not necessarily translate to confidence development. This research posits that structured mentorship, characterized by intentional support and guidance, is crucial for fostering the confidence needed for successful nursing practice.
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